Uplistsikhe: Explore Georgia’s Ancient Rock-Cut Town

Uplistsikhe Cave Town

Uplistsikhe is one of the oldest known urban settlements in Georgia. Cut into rocky hills beside the Mtkvari River, the town grew into an important religious and trading centre long before Christianity became the country’s official faith.

What You Can See

Visitors walk through rock-hewn streets, ceremonial halls, wine presses, storage rooms and places of worship. A dramatic tunnel descends toward the river, while the upper terraces offer open views over Shida Kartli. The Church of Uplistsuli, built in the medieval period, stands above the older pagan spaces.

The soft sandstone and uneven paths make the site feel like an outdoor museum. Its surviving architecture shows how people adapted the natural rock for public, religious and everyday use across many centuries.

Visitor Tips

• Choose dry weather because the rock can become slippery.
• Bring water and sun protection in summer.
• Pair the visit with Gori, about 10 kilometres away.

Where Is Uplistsikhe?